Almost universally seen as an animal of ill omen. Perhaps this is because the weasel has long been associated with witchcraft and darker forces. It was once believed that witches could transform into the weasel and that in centre parts of Europe this was the reason why it was virtually impossible to catch one asleep. The squeaking was also believed to indicate that negative energies were at work and that it was a sign of death being imminent if heard near a house to someone in the family.

To have a weasel run across in front of you was a sign of misfortune to come in some rural communities in Europe, whilst in England (UK) the sight of a white weasel was a sign of imminent disaster believing that tricks were being played, and it was a time to trust no-one.